As the weather gets colder, many people notice their joints feel stiffer, achier, and more painful than usual. Knees, hips, shoulders, necks, and low backs seem to complain more in winter — even in people who are normally very active.
At ActiveMend Chiropractic & Rehabilitation, winter is one of the busiest times of year because cold weather often exposes underlying joint and muscle issues. The good news? There are real reasons winter joint pain happens — and effective ways to treat it.
Why Joint Pain Gets Worse in the Winter
1. Cold Temperatures Increase Muscle and Joint Stiffness
Cold causes muscles, tendons, and ligaments to tighten. When these tissues stiffen, joints lose normal movement and become more irritated — especially if there’s existing inflammation or past injury.
2. Reduced Blood Flow to Muscles and Joints
Cold weather decreases circulation, which can slow healing and increase stiffness. Reduced blood flow also makes tissues less flexible, increasing the risk of strain or flare-ups.
3. Less Movement and Activity
People naturally move less in winter. Fewer steps, less stretching, and more sitting lead to joint compression, muscle shortening, and loss of mobility.
“Motion is lotion” — joints need movement to stay healthy.
4. Changes in Barometric Pressure
Drops in barometric pressure can affect joint capsules and inflamed tissues, causing swelling and discomfort — especially in people with arthritis or old injuries.
5. Poor Winter Posture Habits
Bulky coats, heavy boots, and cold-weather tension often cause slouching, shoulder shrugging, and guarded movement — placing extra stress on the spine and joints.
Most Common Winter Joint Pain Areas We See
At ActiveMend, we commonly see winter flare-ups in the:
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Neck and shoulders
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Low back
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Hips
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Knees
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Ankles and feet
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Wrists and elbows
Many of these issues are related to restricted joints, tight muscles, and old scar tissue that become more noticeable in colder months.
How ActiveMend Treats Winter Joint Pain
We don’t just mask pain — we address the underlying causes.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Restore joint motion, reduce stiffness, and decrease irritation. Keeping joints moving properly helps reduce pressure and improves overall function.
Active Release Technique (ART®)
ART® breaks down adhesions and scar tissue that restrict movement and contribute to winter stiffness. It’s especially helpful for chronic tightness and old injuries that flare up in cold weather.
Shockwave Therapy
For joints and soft tissues that don’t respond to traditional care, shockwave therapy stimulates healing, improves circulation, and helps resolve stubborn inflammation — making it ideal for chronic winter pain.
Rehab & Corrective Exercise
Targeted rehab keeps joints strong, stable, and mobile throughout the winter. We focus on exercises that maintain strength without overloading irritated joints.
What You Can Do at Home to Reduce Winter Joint Pain
1. Warm Up Before You Move
Even simple tasks like shoveling, walking the dog, or working out require a warm-up in cold weather.
2. Stay Consistent with Movement
Short walks, light stretching, and mobility work go a long way in keeping joints healthy.
3. Use Heat Strategically
Heat helps relax tight muscles and improve blood flow — especially before activity.
4. Dress for Joint Warmth
Keeping joints warm reduces stiffness and improves flexibility.
5. Don’t Ignore Early Symptoms
Winter pain often starts mild — addressing it early prevents it from becoming chronic.
When to Get Winter Joint Pain Checked
You should consider professional care if:
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Joint pain lasts more than a few days
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Stiffness limits your movement
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Pain keeps returning every winter
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You feel unstable or weak
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You want to stay active through winter
Why You Don’t Have to Live With Winter Joint Pain
Winter joint pain isn’t “just part of getting older.” It’s often a sign of restricted joints, tight muscles, or old injuries that need attention.
At ActiveMend Chiropractic & Rehabilitation, we help patients stay mobile, active, and comfortable all winter long using chiropractic care, ART®, shockwave therapy, and rehab.
Ready to Move Better This Winter?
Don’t let cold weather slow you down. If joint pain is keeping you from staying active, we’re here to help.
Call us at 234-294-0174 or book online to schedule your visit today. Feel the difference personalized care can make.
Stay warm. Stay moving. Stay healthy.
